Whether you’re creating a museum exhibit, designing a science outreach piece, or developing educational materials, partnering with a scientific illustrator and exhibit designer can transform your big idea into a powerful visual experience.
At Lupine Studios, we specialize in helping organizations bring science to life through illustration, interpretation, and design. But what does it actually look like to start a project with us?
Here’s a breakdown of the typical steps we take with new clients from that first spark of an idea to the moment your final design is out in the world.
1. Have an idea!
Every project starts with an idea. Sometimes it’s a fully fleshed-out concept, other times it’s more of a loose vision or challenge you’re trying to solve. Either way, you don’t need to have it all figured out before reaching out.
Vague ideas give us room to brainstorm and collaborate early in the creative process while well-defined ideas help us move quickly and clearly toward execution. There’s no right or wrong place to start! Just tell us what you’re thinking, and we’ll help you shape it.
Absolutely! That’s a big part of what we do. We’ll ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, and help you define your goals so the final product aligns with your audience, message, and mission.
2. Find the right designer for your project
Not every illustrator or designer is a perfect fit for every project. Different creatives bring different skills, styles, and specialties, so take a little time to research their portfolios and past work.
At Lupine Studios, we focus specifically on science communication. Our clients include museums, nonprofits, researchers, and publishers. We specialize in:
- Publication and editorial illustration
- Interpretive graphics for exhibits
- Interactive science experiences
- Environmental and natural science-focused illustration
If you’re looking for bold, engaging, research-informed visuals, we might be the right fit.
3. Set up a meeting
Once you’ve reviewed our work and are ready to explore the project, we’ll set up a call or video meeting to chat. This is your chance to ask questions and share your goals.
We’ll also ask you questions like:
- Who is your audience?
- What’s the tone or feeling you want to convey?
- Are there specific styles or formats you like?
- What’s your timeline?
Don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers! We’re here to help guide you through the process.
4. Receive a proposal
After our initial meeting, we’ll send over a detailed project proposal that includes:
- A clear scope of work
- Timeline and milestones
- Budget and payment terms
- Licensing or usage details
You’ll have time to review everything and let us know if anything needs adjusting before signing off.
We’ll guide you every step of the way, but you’ll play a key role in providing timely feedback, sharing background information, and helping us understand your goals. We take care of the visuals, you bring the vision.
5. The work begins!
This is where the fun really starts.
Based on your project scope, we’ll begin with initial concepts. This might look like sketches, color compositions, or layout mockups. These rough drafts give us a shared starting point to refine the direction.
You’ll receive progress updates and visuals at every key step. We welcome feedback and questions throughout the process. This is a true collaboration.
Once everything is approved, we’ll take the design to final production quality, whether that’s a polished illustration, exhibit panel, animation, or interactive asset.
Most projects involve a few review rounds, where we’ll need feedback to stay on schedule. We’ll work with you to create a timeline that respects your availability and internal deadlines.
6. Final approval
After a few rounds of review and refinement, we’ll send you the final artwork or deliverables. This is your chance to give everything one last look before we move into production, printing, or handoff.
If you need to make updates after final approval, like changing a logo, updating a date, or reformatting for a new use, we’re happy to help. Just reach out and we can scope a quick update.
Q: What if I need edits later on?
A: If you need to make updates after final approval, like changing a logo, updating a date, or reformatting for a new use, we’re happy to help. Just reach out and we can scope a quick update.
7. Files, printing, and installation
We deliver final files in formats optimized for your needs, whether that’s high-res print-ready PDFs, layered Illustrator files, web graphics, or installation-ready production files. We’ll make sure you know exactly what you’re getting.
If your project includes printed materials or exhibit elements, we can coordinate or consult on production. We’re experienced in designing for print, digital displays, and large-format installation, so your final piece will look great in context.
Collaboration is key
Working with a scientific illustrator and exhibit designer should feel collaborative, creative, and intentional. Whether you’re building a museum exhibit, illustrating a research paper, or designing a science outreach campaign, Lupine Studios is here to help bring your vision to life and make your message resonate with the people you want to reach.
Have an idea brewing?
Contact us to get started! We would love to hear what you’re working on.
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